Visit Camelthorn Lodge
Camelthorn Lodge is constructed around a beautiful Camelthorn tree, within the Tsholotsho Communal area, inside of the Rhino Sanctuary and is directly linked with local communities on the edge of Hwange National Park. The lodge was built for and by the community whose land it calls home. Unique in its style and design and strategically placed to explore the remote and unspoilt South Eastern region of Hwange National Park, where guests can enjoy walking safaris and day/night game drives with highly experienced Guides, in this wildlife rich region.
Camelthorn Lodge has just 8 Forest Villas, nestled into the wilderness that surrounds it and each with a private upstairs veranda with hammocks, ideal for a siesta or a night ‘under the stars’.
Less than a kilometre away from the lodge, there is an underground hide, camouflaged as a termite heap and buried under an ancient Mitswiri tree located in front of a waterhole in the park. The hide offers a fantastic experience of viewing the wildlife up close and offers superb photographic opportunities, as Elephants can be photographed at a distance of 25 feet – getting within such close proximity to these incredible creatures is breath-taking.
Conservation
Imvelo Safari Lodges, who own and manage Camelthorn Lodge, are dedicated to providing safaris with purpose and passion and are working to empower local communities and promote environmental sustainability. This includes the employment of over 100 local people, school and education improvement, fresh water supplies and mobile health clinics. In addition to the numerous benefits and inputs they direct into the communities, they operate a range of programmes specifically aimed at improving and assisting wildlife and land.
Accommodation
8 Double Level Forest Villas.
Large bedroom with overhead fans and fireplace, large glass sliding doors, mini bar and en-suite lounge, with a king-sized bed or twin bed option, en-suite bathroom with bath in front of picture window, shower, double basin and toilet, outdoor maisonette via spiral stairway provides an outdoor deck/roof with hammocks.
Four of the villas have plunge pools on the upstairs veranda, these are subject to request at time of reservation.
• Ceiling fans
• Fire place
• Stocked minibar facility
• Coffee and tea tray
• Hair dryer
• Mosquito net and repellent
• Emergency whistle and air horn
• Electronic safes
• Mobile LED lamp
• Bath robes
• Free daily laundry (weather dependent)
Lodge Season & Opening
Children under the age of 7 are only allowed by special arrangement subject to restrictions and at the sole discretion of lodge management.
Location
Camelthorn Lodge can be accessed via light aircraft from Victoria Falls Airport (1 hour ) to Bomani Airstip followed by a transfer to the lodge. Bomani Airstrip is open only seasonally. During the rainy season light air charters usually land and take off from Sipepa – about 1 hour drive from the Lodge.
For more information on Camelthorn Lodge contact our team of expert Travel Consultants who will be delighted to tailor-make your Zimbabwe travel itinerary.
For a no-obligation quotation, simply contact us via our free online Request A Quote service.
Your stay- what you need to know
Unique Forest Lodge Setting
- Set within pristine camelthorn woodland and centred around an ancient tree, creating a peaceful and immersive safari atmosphere.
Underground Hide Wildlife Encounters
- Observe elephants and other wildlife at close range from a specially designed underground hide near a waterhole.
Diverse Safari Activities
- Enjoy guided walking safaris, day and night game drives, birding and seasonal activities across Hwange’s varied landscapes.
Community & Conservation Focus
- Built with and for local communities, supporting conservation, water projects and the Ngamo Rhino Sanctuary.
Spacious Forest Villas with Views
- Stay in double-storey villas with private decks, hammocks and elevated views over woodland and nearby wildlife areas.
Price Includes
- Accommodation & all meals, soft drinks, beers, wines & local spirits, laundry.
- Wi-Fi in main lodge area.
- Transfers from Bomani Airstrip or Ngamo Siding (20 min road transfer).
- Game activities as available including walks, drives, all day excursions, hide sits, night drives.
- Ngamo community experience, and school tour (*school visits not available in April, August and December –
Mid January during school holidays).
Price Excludes
- Community Rhino Conservation Initiative (CRCI) Levy of US$ 200 per person per stay will be added to all bookings. Children 16 and under will be charged US$ 100 per stay.
- Hwange National Park entry fee.
- International flights.
- Tips & gratuities
- Visa
- Travel Insurance
- Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Safari Pricing Guide (PDF)
For more information, view the Safari Pricing Guide (PDF) , a detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details.
Any Special offers for the hotel will be shown here:
Talk to a Specialist
Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari to Africa.
Head Office in Nairobi
We have an experienced team of Safari Consultants based in Kenya.
You can contact our Nairobi team at info@gamewatchers.com or call at +254-722-509-200.

Rick Mcintyre
Hello, I’m Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I’ve journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you’re dreaming of a “once in a lifetime” vacation or you’re a seasoned safari traveler, I’m here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we’ll make your African dreams a reality.

Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!.
You can reach me by email at rae@gamewatchers.com

Julie Roggow
Greetings, I’m Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I’m here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let’s embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.

Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom.
My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent.
I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects.
Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa.
Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.com

Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul.
If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com

Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call on +61 419 175 672.

Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or call on +91 801 788 5256.

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